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Zimbabwe Announces Sables Squad for Rugby Africa Cup

The Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) has announced the Sables squad for the Rugby Africa Cup, which will be held in Uganda from the 18th to the 30th of July.

 

The squad includes experienced and up-and-coming players, with head coach Pieter Benade confident that the team has the talent and depth to challenge for the title.

“We are excited to be heading to Uganda for the Rugby Africa Cup,” said Benade.

“We have selected a strong squad that is capable of winning the tournament. We know it will be a tough challenge, but we are confident that we can cause an upset.”

The full Sables squad is as follows:

Forwards

* Aiden Burnett (Vice Captain)

* Blythe Mavesere

* Bornwell Gwinji

* Brian Makamure

* Brian Nyaude

* Bryan Chiang

* Cleopas Kundiona

* David Makamba

* Hilton Kamanda

* Huntley Masterson

* Jeff Makoni

* Keegan Joubert

* Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa

* Liam Larkan

* Neil Mawere

* Simba Mandioma

* Simba Siraha

* Tadiwa Gwashu

* Tapiwa Tsomondo

* Victor Mapunga

* Zvikomborero Chimoto

 

Backs

* Brandon Mudzekenyedzi

* Carlos Matemai

* Darell Makwasha

* Dion Khumalo

* Gamu Nekati

* Godfrey Magaramombe

* Hilton Mudariki (Captain)

* Ian Prior

* Kudzi Mashawi (Co-Captain)

* Takudzwa Musingwini

* Tapiwa Mafura

* Thabani Maguranyanga

* Trevor Gurwe

The Sables will begin their Rugby Africa Cup campaign against the hosts Uganda on July 20th.

Local Acts Announced for Maverick City & Kirk Franklin’s Kingdom World Tour in Zimbabwe

The highly anticipated Kingdom World Tour featuring the iconic gospel artists Maverick City Music and Kirk Franklin is set to take the stage in Zimbabwe on August 12, 2024, at the Glamis Arena in Harare.

 

Adding to the star-studded lineup are some of Zimbabwe’s most talented local acts.

Seasoned musician Tembalami will team up with the vibrant choral group The Unveiled, where they are set to perform their hit song “Gore Rino” alongside many other favourites from their respective repertoires.

The Unveiled recently launched their live DVD in Harare and have become one of the most sought-after choral groups in the country.

South African-based worshiper Takesure Zamar will also grace the stage, captivating the audience with his all-time gospel classics that are known to create an atmosphere of deep prayer and worship.

Joining the impressive lineup is the energetic Joyfull Praise Choir, renowned for their voices and electrifying dance performances that are sure to complement the dynamic headliners.

“We are thrilled to have such a talented lineup of local artists joining Maverick City Music and Kirk Franklin for the Kingdom World Tour in Zimbabwe,” said Event Director Pastor Lyncolin Kapswara.

“These acts are going to leave everything on the stage and deliver an unforgettable experience for our attendees.”

With just over a month until the highly anticipated event, Pastor Kapswara urged concertgoers to secure their tickets early.

“We have various ticket packages available to suit everyone’s needs. The month-end deal ticket, available from June 24 to July 8, is priced at $25. We also offer a group deal where you can buy 5 tickets for $100. For those looking for a premium experience, VIP tickets are available for $65, and the Meet and Greet package is priced at $100.”

For more information and how to purchase tickets, please visit Events by GEC on Instagram.

Belgium-born Naqvi in Zim Squad for T20I Series Against India

Zimbabwe have provisionally named the Belgian-born Antum Naqvi in a young squad that will face India in a five-match Twenty20 international (T20I) series in Harare.

 

The 25-year-old batter’s inclusion is subject to the confirmation of his citizenship status.

Naqvi was born to Pakistani parents in Brussels, Belgium, before moving to Australia, but he was considered for selection after he declared his desire to represent Zimbabwe in international cricket and applied for naturalisation.

Turning out for Rhinos on the domestic front, he boasts a strike rate of 146.80 in the T20 format, while his averages of 72.00 in first-class cricket and 73.42 in List A cricket underline his massive potential to excel in the international game.

Aiming to rebuild under new head coach Justin Sammons after failing to qualify for the just-ended ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Zimbabwe have picked a young squad with an average age of 27 and a total of 558 T20I appearances.

The captain Sikandar Raza, at 38 and with 86 matches under his belt, is the team’s most experienced player, followed by 29-year-old Luke Jongwe who has featured in 63 games.

The other seasoned campaigners in the side are pace bowlers Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani, aged 26 and 27 and with 52 and 51 T20I appearances respectively.

Zimbabwe welcome the return of Tendai Chatara alongside Wessly Madhevere, Brandon Mavuta, Dion Myers, Innocent Kaia and Milton Shumba.

Clive Madande, Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Wellington Masakadza, Tadiwanashe Marumani and Faraz Akram have been retained, but five of the players who were part of the team’s last T20I series, away to Bangladesh in April, have missed out.

Veterans Craig Ervine and Sean Williams were not considered for selection, while Ryan Burl, Joylord Gumbie and Ainsley Ndlovu failed to make the cut.

The series between Zimbabwe and India will get underway this weekend, with the first two matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at Harare Sports Club, starting at 1pm local time.

ZIMBABWE SQUAD FOR T20I SERIES VERSUS INDIA:

Raza Sikandar (captain), Akram Faraz, Bennett Brian, Campbell Johnathan, Chatara Tendai, Jongwe Luke, Kaia Innocent, Madande Clive, Madhevere Wessly, Marumani Tadiwanashe, Masakadza Wellington, Mavuta Brandon, Muzarabani Blessing, Myers Dion, Naqvi Antum, Ngarava Richard, Shumba Milton

BET Awards 2024: Tyla, Makhadzi win big in international categories

South Africa won big at the BET Awards 2024, with 22-year-old Afrobeats pop star Tyla and Limpopo-born singer Makhadzi taking home accolades.

 

At Sunday night’s awards ceremony at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, California, Tyla won Best New Artist and Best International Act.

Makhadzi won the BET Viewers Choice: Best International Act.

Tyla slayed the blue carpet, wearing a bespoke black halter neck floor-length Versace gown.

She paired the dress with more than $230,000 worth of jewellery from Jared Atelier, including diamond drop earrings of natural morganite and diamonds and an emerald-cut diamond tennis bracelet worth $115,000.

The Grammy award-winning beauty beat Sexxy Red, 4Batz, 41, Ayra Starr, Bossman Dlow, Fridayy and October London to win Best New Artist, her second win after bagging Best New International Act.

“This is crazy,” she said.

“I love Sexyy Red. I love her so much. This is such a gift to be here. I want to dedicate this one to Africa. I want to dedicate this one to all the African superstars before me who didn’t get the opportunities I am getting. It’s amazing. Africa to the world, guys,”

The Johannesburg-born megastar took to the stage in an elaborate safari-themed high energy performance of Jump from her self-titled debut album released in March.

Tyla started by descending on the stage in a rope trapeze swing, entering a giant cage with four women painted as different parts of a tiger laid across the floor and a statue of an elephant off to the side.

She danced underneath men hoisted high on giraffe-like stilts and accompanied by guest appearances by American rapper Gunna and Jamaican dancehall artist Skillibeng.

Limpopo-born Makhadzi won the Viewers Choice: Best International Act award, beating Bellah, Cristale, Duquesa, Holly G, Jungeli, Oruam, Seyi Vibez and South Africa’s Tyler ICU.

The 28 year-old singer, who performed on Friday at the BET International nominees celebration at the Grammy Museum, wore a South African flag-inspired red silk gown with a large sculptural piece beaded with the colours of the national flag.

It took more than 10 days to design and create by Mamello Makha.

Said Makhadzi: “Everyone is waiting for me at home to bring home the award and today is my birthday so it brought me good luck.”

“I’m Makhadzi because of my fans and my followers, who keep on supporting me and I appreciate their love. I’m here today because of them. I love you guys.”

Album of the Year went to Killer Mike. Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, a category in which Tyla was nominated, went to Sza. Best Male R&B/Pop Artist and the Lifetime Achievement Award went to Usher.

Jordan Moozy Confirmed for Access Music Festival in Rwanda

Rising Afro-Pop performer Jordan Moozy is taking his musical journey to new heights as he was just announced as one of the acts performing at the prestigious Access Music Festival to be held in Kigali, Rwanda.

 

The festival, slated for November 14-16, 2024, will showcase a diverse range of musical talent from across the African continent, and Jordan Moozy’s inclusion marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.

This announcement marks another impressive accomplishment for the artist as Jordan Moozy has been building an impressive resume during his shirt career thus far.

Jordan continues to position himself as a leading figure in the Southern African music scene.

As one of the first artists revealed for the festival, he joins a lineup of renowned acts representing the continent’s diverse musical landscape such as South Africa’s Zaki Ibrahim, Kenya’s Ocotopizzo Assa Matusse, Youbana and more

Adding to the significance of this achievement, Jordan Moozy and fellow Zimbabwean act Bantu Spaceship are the only artists from Zimbabwe announced so far.

This dual representation showcases the growing international recognition of Zimbabwean music and serves as a powerful testament to the talent emerging from the country.

“This is a dream come true,” says Jordan Moozy. “Being selected to perform at Access Music Festival is an incredible honour.

It’s a testament to the hard work I’ve put in and the support of my fans. I’m excited to share my new music with a wider audience and connect with fellow artists from across Africa.”

Jordan Moozy has been in the studio with industry greats such as 37MPH, Spirit Fingers and Simba Tagz on new music that was premiered at exclusive listening sessions in Johannesburg and Harare over the last 2 months.

Jordan Moozy’s unique blend of Afro Pop, R&B, and highlife, infused with his cultural influences and experiences, has captivated audiences across borders.

He has already made a mark in the music industry, winning Best R&B and Best Collaboration at the Yarona FM Awards and performing at notable events such as the Shoko Festival.

With his appearance at the Access Music Festival, he is poised to reach even greater heights and solidify his position as a force to be reckoned with in the global music scene.

Zimbabwe Registers Win On Their Return To The COSAFA Cup

Zimbabwe picked up a victory on their return to the COSAFA Cup for the first time since 2021 as they edged Comoros 1-0 following a winning goal in the second half from Michael Tapera.

 

It was a hard-fought contest in which both teams had further chances, but the Warriors managed to hold on in the end for what will be a huge boost in morale.

Captain Godknows Murwira was voted man of the match.

Champions Zambia got the defence of their HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup 2024 title off to a losing start after they were beaten 2-0 by East African guest nation Kenya at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Thursday.

The match followed a 1-0 win for Zimbabwe in their Group B opener against Comoros and leaves record seven-time winners Zambia on the back foot already as they seek an unprecidented third title win in a row.

Only the top team in each of the three pools and the best placed runner-up advance to the semifinals this year, meaning it is all to play for and any slip-ups put teams on the back foot.

Kenya took the lead when Austine Odhiambo kept his cool from the penalty-spot to slot the ball home after eight minutes.

One became two soon afterwards as hesitant defending at the back post allowed Patrick Otieno to steal in and score as he poked the ball past Zambia goalkeeper Charles Kalumba.

The second half saw Zambia dominate possession, but they were not able to create enough in front of goal to claw their way back into the game.

The action continues on Friday with the opening games in Group C. Entrance will be FREE with tickets for tomorrow’s game available at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium ticket office on a first come, first served basis.

Lesotho, beaten finalists last year, will take on Seychelles with kick-off set for 15h00 CAT.

It will be a first ever meeting between these two nations in the COSAFA Cup, creating a little bit of history in Gqeberha. Seychelles have never been past the group stages and that will be their aim this time round.

The later game sees Angola take on Namibia at the same venue at 18h00 CAT.

Namibia will have to make their own piece of history if they are to win this one, having never defeated Angola before in the COSAFA Cup.
Palancas Negras have won two of their four previous meetings in the competition, with the other two drawn.

That includes the 1999 final that Angola won 2-1 on aggregate when the decider was played over two legs, while the last time they met in the regional showpiece competition was all the way back in 2004.

Tatenda Mahachi Drops New Hit Single “Namata” Featuring Freeman HKD

Acclaimed gospel musician Tatenda Mahachi has just released his latest single, “Namata,” featuring versatile artist Freeman HKD.

 

This dynamic collaboration marks the first single from Mahachi’s highly anticipated forthcoming album, set to drop later this year.

Released on Monday, “Namata” has already captivated listeners with its powerful message and melodious harmony.

The accompanying music video, which premiered on Wednesday morning, visually complements the song’s profound message, adding another layer of depth to the experience.

“Namata” is rapidly gaining traction on major national radio stations, resonating deeply with audiences.

The song serves as a poignant reminder to believers to use prayer as their weapon against the challenges of the world.

Its captivating beat has made it an instant favourite among fans of both gospel and contemporary music.

Tatenda Mahachi shared his excitement about the collaboration with Freeman HKD.

“This song was a long time coming. I have always wanted to expand my horizons by trying out new genres to spread the message of the cross. Working with Freeman has been an incredible experience, and I believe ‘Namata’ will touch many hearts,” said Mahachi.

The fusion of Mahachi’s gospel roots with Freeman HKD’s distinct dancehall style has created a unique sound that transcends traditional genre boundaries.

This collaboration not only showcases Mahachi’s versatility as an artist but also highlights his commitment to innovating within the gospel music scene.

Watch “Namata” below

Violent Chegutu Pirates Fans Force Linesmen to Switch Sides

In a tense match between Caps United and Chegutu Pirates at Rufaro Stadium, the assistant referees had to switch sides to calm the violent Chegutu Pirates fan base.

 

The disruption began when Pirates fans, occupying the Vietnam Stand, started throwing missiles at one of the linesmen.

Fearing for the safety of the match officials, the match was halted for nearly 25 minutes until the decision was made to switch the assistant referees.

Pirates fans were disputing a throw-in decision that went Caps United’s way.

The incident was triggered by William Manondo’s header in the 67th minute, which gave Caps United the lead.

This led to further chaos, with some fights breaking out near the Vietnam Stand, resulting in several hooligans being arrested by the police.

Chegutu Pirates have previously been fined and docked points in their debut Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season due to the violent behaviour of their supporters.

After the lengthy break, the match resumed, and Pirates quickly equalized from a free kick, courtesy of Gift Mwinga. However, William Manondo restored Caps United’s lead in the 93rd minute, silencing the Pirates fans.

This brace marked his seventh league goal of the season, leaving him just one goal behind the top scorer, Evans Katema, who has been in prolific form for Bikita Minerals.

The match ended 2-1 in favour of Caps United.

Sunday Matchday 16 Results:

Caps United 2-1 Chegutu Pirates

Highlanders 1-0 Hwange

Greenfuel 1-0 Yadah

Manica Diamonds 0-0 Dynamos

Featured Picture by Symbolic Photography

Culture Warriors Triumph at Chibuku Neshamwari Harare Finals

The rich cultural display in dance was showcased at a well-attended Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival Harare finals in Dzivarasekwa.

 

Padziva Camp and Caravan hosted ten traditional dance groups as they competed for the sole ticket to represent Harare province.

The Mufakose-based group, Culture Warriors, who specialize in Dinhe dance, charmed their way into the judges’ hearts and will represent the province at the Masvingo finals later in July.

They also won a cash prize of US$2,500.

Another group from Mufakose, Shingai Dance Troupe, came second, while Villa Kutinyu Angoni Nyau Club from Dzivarasekwa came third.

They also pocketed US$1,500 and US$1,000, respectively.

Shingai Dance Troupe

The Harare finals marked the seventh province to have chosen their representatives, with only three provinces left before the big finale in July.

Chibuku Neshamwari is sponsored by Delta Beverages in collaboration with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association.

Zimbabwe Cricket names Justin Sammons as Zimbabwe Head Coach

The Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) Board has named South African Justin Sammons as Head Coach of the Zimbabwe Senior Men’s National Team with immediate effect.

He will be joined by former Zimbabwe international Dion Ebrahim who is coming in as Assistant Coach.

Sammons, who over the years has done sterling work with South Africa’s high performance programme as well as with several domestic sides, was part of the Proteas technical team as batting consultant between 2021 and 2023.

ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani said: “We are delighted to confirm Justin as Head Coach of the Zimbabwe Senior Men’s National Team.

“He brings a wealth of coaching experience and a reputation of identifying, nurturing and developing some of the best young talent in South Africa.

“His hard-working and passionate approach as well as sense of values on and off the pitch make him the ideal person to take us forward.”

An elated Sammons said: “It is an absolute privilege to be appointed as the Zimbabwe Senior Men’s National Team Head Coach.

“I look forward to the road ahead and I am excited to start working with this talented group of players.”

His assistant, Ebrahim, represented Zimbabwe in 29 Tests and 82 one-day internationals before he later pursued a coaching career in New Zealand where has been involved at the highest level with the Black Caps.

The rest of the technical staff for the senior men’s side will be appointed in consultation with Sammons.

ZC has also announced former Zimbabwe captain Elton Chigumbura as Head Coach of the Zimbabwe Under-19 Men’s National Team.

Rangarirai Norbert Manyande, who played first-class cricket in Zimbabwe before he went on to feature for Namibia, was named as his Assistant and Batting Coach, while former South Africa star Paul Adams will be the Bowling Coach.

These appointments, which followed a rigorous recruitment process, were confirmed during a ZC Board meeting held this Wednesday.